The Orlando Magic's Playoff hopes hang by a thread after a sixth straight loss. Paolo Banchero looked like a superstar again, carrying the Magic into the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers with another 36 points. But his team struggled to step up and support him and the defense never stiffened, allowing Donovan Mitchell and James Harden to outshine him.
It is clear -- and has been clear -- that there are major roster deficiencies. Already there are big questions that the Magic need to ask: How much have this season's shortcomings been credited to injuries and how much is a deep flaw to the roster?
Injuries have been a constant story for this team since November. They have rarely seen their projected opening night lineup together. But while that has certainly knocked the team back into the Play-In race, it is not the only reason the team has struggled.
Orlando's front office invested too much in defenders who did not have the offensive skills to keep up in the new NBA. The team's depth has been stretched too thin and the Magic cannot field a roster with enough Playoff-ready players for this time of year.
The good news is that Franz Wagner is starting to make progress in his return from a high ankle sprain, practicing with the Osceola Magic on Monday. His potentially imminent return could save the Magic's season in the final 10 games.
05:27 Team Struggles Amid Key Injuries
14:01 Magic's Season in Crisis
20:46 Magic's Offensive Weaknesses Persist
25:10 Magic Coaching Opportunity Sparks Interest
30:10 Magic's Playoff Push Progresses
35:07 Franz Wagner: Defensive Anchor
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